A tragic incident in Brazil has highlighted the ongoing dangers associated with kite flying, particularly in urban areas. Cleuson Andrade Viana, a 39-year-old construction worker, lost his life following a disturbing accident in which he was struck by a kite string coated with a dangerous adhesive while riding his motorcycle in the municipality of Santana, Amapá, on 30 June.
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According to reports, Viana was travelling through the Paraíso neighbourhood when the incident occurred around 6:20 p.m. local time. Local news outlet G1 confirmed that the kite string was made with “cerol,” a hazardous substance composed of glue and abrasive materials often used in competitive kite flying. Viana was found sitting on a curb, trying to stem the bleeding from his neck after the kite string had wrapped around him.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Municipality of Santana took to social media, expressing condolences to Viana’s family and friends while lamenting the irreparable loss. The local authorities reiterated the existing ban on the use of waxed or abrasive-coated kite strings in public spaces, a regulation in place due to the increasing number of accidents stemming from their use.
Viana’s wife, Lenice Moreira, described him as a devoted husband and father who left for work with a smile but tragically did not return. In an emotionally charged interview, she urged other parents to reconsider allowing their children to fly kites, emphasising the risks involved. “Today, my children lost their father,” she said, conveying the profound impact of this unexpected loss on their lives. Moreira continues to advocate for awareness around kite flying safety, hoping to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Viana’s mother expressed her grief and demanded justice, highlighting the bitter reality of losing a family member in such an avoidable manner. “My son was everything to me,” she stated, mourning the part of her life that has been irrevocably taken away.
Lieutenant Ângelo Silva of the military police spoke to G1, emphasising that summer holidays are a particularly popular time for kite flying in urban settings, often leading to increased risks. Although it is illegal to fly kites within 200 metres of electrical infrastructure, the rules are frequently flouted by kite enthusiasts. Silva advised motorcyclists to wear protective clothing and helmets, indicating that prevention should always be the priority in such scenarios.
The issue of dangerous kite strings is not new in Brazil. Over the years, numerous incidents have raised alarms and led to calls for stricter regulations or a complete ban on abrasive kite lines. While certain areas have implemented bans, a comprehensive nationwide prohibition has yet to be realised.
This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in everyday activities, prompting authorities and families alike to reconsider safety measures surrounding kite flying. As Brazil grapples with the consequences of such incidents, Viana’s family hopes that their loss will not be in vain and that their story will encourage greater vigilance and awareness around kite flying practices.
As public discourse surrounding this incident intensifies, it is clear that more robust measures may be necessary to ensure the safety of all individuals, particularly those who, like Viana, are simply going about their daily lives.